Johnson Signals Need for New Strategy as Shutdown Hits Day 22

The government shutdown has entered its 22nd day, marking it as the second-longest in U.S. history. House Speaker Mike Johnson acknowledged on October 22, 2025, that the messaging from the Republican Party is becoming stale, suggesting a potential shift in strategy may be necessary. During a press conference at the Capitol in Washington, he reiterated the party’s stance of placing blame on Democrats for the impasse but conceded that the repetitive nature of their approach is evident.

“This is now the second-longest government shutdown of any kind ever in the history of our country, and it’s just shameful,” Johnson stated. He emphasized that while House Republicans remain nearly unanimous—”almost 100%—probably 99.8%”—in their strategy of refusing to negotiate until government funding is secured, the urgency of the situation is increasing as time runs out.

Johnson faced questions about recent comments made by Texas Republican Rep. Beth Van Duyne, who expressed concern during a GOP conference call that the party’s messaging was feeling worn out. He agreed with her assessment, acknowledging that they have been reiterating the same points daily. Despite this, Johnson maintained that the focus remains on appealing to public sentiment and common sense.

As the shutdown progresses, over 42% of the time that the House-passed continuing resolution was intended to cover has passed, raising concerns about the feasibility of completing appropriations on schedule. Johnson remarked on the toll that the ongoing stalemate is taking, stating, “Obviously, the calendar is being eaten up by all this political nonsense by the Democrats.” He hinted that calling members back to Washington might become necessary as November approaches.

Following Johnson’s remarks, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries expressed his hopes for a resolution by the end of the month. However, he remained firm on the Democrats’ demands for a budget that includes $1.5 trillion in funding. Jeffries highlighted the inactivity of Republicans during the shutdown, stating, “Republicans remain on vacation for the fourth consecutive week.” He also criticized former President Donald Trump for his planned trip to Asia, suggesting that his absence reflects a lack of engagement in resolving the crisis.

Jeffries urged Johnson and his party to return to the negotiating table to address not only the shutdown but also what he termed a health care crisis exacerbated by Republican opposition to extending enhanced subsidies under the Affordable Care Act. He noted the increasing burden on millions of Americans facing rising premiums due to the stalled legislative efforts.

In response to questions regarding Trump’s decision to postpone discussions with Democrats until the shutdown ends, Jeffries quipped that the former president has prioritized leisure over legislative engagement. He dismissed claims that Democrats were using the shutdown as leverage, asserting that their focus is on improving the lives of American citizens rather than tactical advantages.

A recent Quinnipiac University poll reflected public sentiment on the shutdown, indicating that 45% of registered voters believe Republicans in Congress hold greater responsibility for the ongoing crisis, while 39% attribute blame to Democrats. Eleven percent of respondents felt both parties share equal responsibility.

As the situation develops, both parties face mounting pressure to find a resolution that avoids further political fallout and addresses the needs of the American public.